Headteacher’s Letter – 19 June 2026 | Southend High School for Girls (SHSG)
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This week’s letter covers:
Summer Events and Important Dates
Big Band Summer Fayre – Wednesday 8 July
Families, students and friends are invited to the Big Band Summer Fayre from 5pm to 8pm, hosted jointly with Southend High School for Boys. The event will feature live music, support acts, food, a Pimms tent and picnic areas for a relaxed summer evening.
Year 5 Open Evening – Early School Closure
On Thursday 2 July, students will attend morning lessons only and finish at 12.25pm due to the Year 5 Open Evening. Packed lunches are available for eligible students who receive free school meals.
Students in Years 7–10 and Year 12 can still volunteer as tour guides to help welcome prospective families.
Culture Week Celebrates Diversity
SHSG’s annual Culture Week begins on 22 June, celebrating the diverse backgrounds of the school community.
Highlights include:
- A non-uniform Culture Day
- Traditional dress and cultural colours
- A Culture Fair
- Music, dance and singing performances
- Activities exploring world cultures, literature, psychology and languages
The week is designed to encourage learning, celebration and shared experiences across the school community.
Warm Weather Uniform Update
Due to the recent hot weather, students do not need to wear or bring blazers to school until the end of term on 17 July, except for selected formal events such as Awards Evening.
Celebrating Exam Success and Proms
Congratulations were extended to Year 11 and Year 13 students who have completed their GCSE and A-Level exams.
- Year 13 Prom: Tuesday 30 June
- Year 11 Prom: Monday 6 July
The school wishes all students a memorable celebration with friends and staff.
Educational Trips and Student Experiences
Rhineland Visit 2026
Year 8 students enjoyed a five-day trip to Germany, visiting castles, exploring the Rhine Valley and practising their German language skills with local residents.
Highlights included:
- Visiting the historic city of Koblenz
- Exploring Burg Eltz Castle
- Boat trips and scenic chairlift rides
- Learning about German culture and history
Students described the trip as educational, enjoyable and unforgettable.
A-Level Taster Day
Year 10 students sampled a variety of A-Level subjects including:
- Mathematics
- Classical Civilisation
- English Language and Literature
- German
- Physics
The event offered students a valuable insight into Sixth Form life and academic expectations.
Free School Meals Changes from September 2026
Parents are reminded that all pupils receiving free school meals must be rechecked before September 2026.
Families who are currently eligible, or believe they may qualify, should complete the school’s application form by 10 July 2026 to avoid losing entitlement for the new academic year.
Inspiring Future Engineers
To mark International Women in Engineering Day 2026, SHSG welcomed ten female engineers and former students to inspire Years 7–9.
Students took part in:
- Bridge-building challenges
- App design activities
- Elevator engineering projects
- Careers talks and mentoring sessions
The event showcased the exciting opportunities available to young women in STEM careers.
Student Achievements and Awards
National Media Studies Success
Three Year 13 students received national recognition in the MediaMag Production Competition.
- Two students were shortlisted for the final from over 60 schools and colleges.
- Another student received a Special Commendation.
- Finalists will attend an awards ceremony at the BFI Southbank in July.
Sporting Success
SHSG athletes achieved outstanding results at the Essex Athletics Championships.
Achievements included:
- National qualification in Long Jump
- Gold medal in the Junior Girls’ 800m
- Silver medals in Javelin and High Jump
Eighteen students were selected to represent Southend Borough, highlighting the strength of athletics at the school.
Headteacher’s Award
Two Year 7 students received the Headteacher’s Award for their contribution to the local community and for being excellent ambassadors for the school.
Health and Family Support
The letter also highlights several important initiatives for families:
- A new free MenB vaccination programme for eligible 17–18 year olds starting in July 2026.
- Water safety advice and resources for teenagers ahead of the summer holidays.
- The Government’s new Summer Savings Scheme, offering discounted activities, reduced VAT on children’s meals and free bus travel for children aged 5–15 during August.
- Ongoing mental health and wellbeing resources available through the school website and dedicated student wellbeing boards.